Discover the very best of greece yacht charter with this detailed guide covering attractions, tips and insider knowledge.
Greece is the world’s finest yacht charter destination. Over 6,000 islands scattered across the Ionian and Aegean seas, reliable summer winds for sailing, crystal-clear water perfect for anchoring and swimming, and an unmatched density of ancient history, whitewashed villages, and seafront tavernas — no other country combines all of this in the same way. Whether you want a bareboat sailing adventure, a crewed motoryacht exploring secluded coves, or a gulet cruise along the Turkish coast, Greece has the right vessel and the right waters for you.
Greece Yacht Charter: Types of Yacht Charter in Greece
The Greek charter market offers more variety than almost anywhere else in the Mediterranean. The main categories are bareboat sailing (you captain the vessel yourself — requires sailing qualifications), skippered sailing (a professional captain handles the boat while you relax), fully crewed sailing or motor yachts (captain, crew, and chef included), and traditional gulets (wooden motor-sailers, typically chartered on the Dodecanese or along the Turkish coast). Catamarans have grown in popularity for family charters due to their stability and spacious deck layout.
The Best Greek Island Routes
The charter route you choose determines the pace and character of your holiday. The three main sailing regions have distinct personalities.
| Region | Islands | Wind Conditions | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ionian | Corfu, Kefalonia, Ithaca, Lefkada, Zakynthos | Moderate, predictable Maestro wind | Beginners, families, relaxed cruising |
| Cyclades (Aegean) | Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Naxos, Milos | Stronger Meltemi wind (July–August) | Experienced sailors, iconic scenery |
| Dodecanese | Rhodes, Kos, Patmos, Symi, Halki | Variable — calmer than Cyclades | History, secluded anchorages, Turkey day trips |
| Saronic Gulf | Aegina, Hydra, Spetses, Poros | Light, ideal for first-time charterers | Short charters from Athens, weekend trips |
What’s Included in a Greek Yacht Charter
A bareboat charter typically includes the vessel, its safety equipment, charts, and basic provisioning. You pay separately for fuel, marina fees, and the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) if using a crewed yacht. For crewed charters, the weekly rate covers the yacht, captain, crew, and often the chef — but provisioning (food and drink) is usually billed additionally against the APA at the end of the charter. Budget approximately 20–30% of the base charter fee for running costs on a crewed yacht.
Flotilla holidays offer a middle ground: you sail your own bareboat as part of a small fleet, with a lead boat providing daily guidance and technical support. These are ideal for sailors who want the independence of bareboat chartering but with a safety net — and the social element of other charterers to share anchorages with in the evening.
Booking Your Greek Yacht Charter
Book through an established charter broker rather than directly with an owner — brokers have vetted their fleets, carry professional indemnity insurance, and can match you to the right vessel for your group size, experience level, and budget. The charter season runs from April to October; July and August are peak months with the highest rates and strongest winds. May, June, and September offer excellent sailing conditions with fewer crowds and rates 20–30% below peak. Charter boats are typically available Saturday to Saturday from the main bases at Corfu, Lefkada, Athens (Alimos), Kos, and Rhodes.
Greece’s waters, islands, and culture make yacht chartering here one of the most rewarding travel experiences in the world. Plan carefully, choose your region for your sailing experience level, and the Aegean will deliver a holiday you’ll return to year after year.
Further Reading
Table of Contents
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- Holidaying in Spain
- Deluxe Catered Chalets
- Lonely Planet Travel Guides
- TripAdvisor Reviews
Greece Yacht Charter — Final Thoughts
Greece yacht charter continues to attract visitors from around the world, and it is easy to understand why. Whether you are exploring greece yacht charter for the first time or returning for another visit, there is always something new to discover. The best approach to greece yacht charter is to plan ahead, stay flexible, and embrace every opportunity. If you are serious about making the most of greece yacht charter, this guide has everything you need to get started.